Sad news is circulating among drivers over the age of 70, and it’s raising serious questions about whether seniors should continue to operate motor vehicles without undergoing periodic assessments. Have you ever stopped to think about whether older drivers are still fully capable of handling the demands of driving?

Should they, like students retaking a test, be required to prove their abilities at a certain age? While it’s true that age alone isn’t enough to determine someone’s fitness to drive, it’s equally true that aging brings certain physical and mental changes that demand caution and consideration. Reflexes tend to slow down, eyesight isn’t what it used to be, hearing can fade, and staying alert behind the wheel becomes more difficult.

A tragic accident that recently occurred in La Rochelle highlights just how critical this issue can be. An 83-year-old woman, who was driving the wrong way, struck a group of children riding bicycles. Several were injured, and the entire incident sparked renewed debate about how old is too old to drive safely. According to statistics from the Road Safety Authority, drivers over 75 are just as likely to be involved in accidents as those between the ages of 18 and 24. While this comparison may be surprising, it emphasizes the reality that aging does affect driving abilities, just as inexperience and impulsivity can affect younger drivers. So, does that mean there’s a legal age limit for driving? Surprisingly, no.

In France, for example, a B license—which covers the right to drive a private vehicle—is valid for life, unless it’s revoked due to a major offense or a legal judgment. There’s no legal requirement for older drivers to undergo medical evaluations or retesting, even as they enter their 70s or 80s. Unlike countries like Italy and Germany, which require health checks after age 70 or 75, France relies on the principle of personal responsibility. While this hands-off approach might work for many, it doesn’t mean that nothing can or should be done. In fact, there are smart and practical solutions available that don’t involve stigmatizing older drivers. For instance, seniors can voluntarily see their doctor or a licensed physician for an evaluation of their driving-related capabilities. These evaluations often include vision checks, reflex assessments, and tests for coordination.

A doctor may also suggest simple adjustments, such as limiting driving to daylight hours or avoiding highways during rush hour. Another great option for older drivers is to take a refresher course. These courses help seniors reacquaint themselves with updated traffic laws, get familiar with modern roadway changes like roundabouts, and learn how to use new driving technology such as lane assist or backup cameras. The feedback they receive can help reinforce good habits and identify areas that need improvement. Upgrading your vehicle or adjusting your driving habits can also make a big difference. For example, switching from a manual to an automatic transmission can ease the physical strain of driving and make it less stressful overall. Across France, workshops are being organized specifically to help older adults learn about these changes and decide if they’d benefit from making a switch. Some driving schools are even offering senior-specific driving lessons, with one-on-one coaching and a relaxed atmosphere tailored to their needs. What’s important is that we stop pointing fingers and start supporting each other. Instead of blaming or stereotyping elderly drivers, we should be encouraging them with resources and tools to stay safe on the road. Many of these drivers have decades of experience and spotless records. Their wisdom and caution are assets, not liabilities. But like everyone else, they may benefit from a little help adjusting to a rapidly changing world. Offering support, encouraging voluntary checkups, promoting refresher courses, and spreading awareness of safe driving alternatives are all positive steps forward. In the end, it’s not about taking away freedom—it’s about helping older adults maintain it safely.